Report: Perry Hill is MLB's best infield coach

Save for shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria, the Marlins will have an entirely new infield next season -- which is a good thing they also have Perry Hill lending his defensive expertise to the new crew. According to a Boston Glove report that was published Sunday, Hill ranks as the best infield coach in the majors. He was the only member of the Marlins' coaching staff to receive mention.

Wrote the Globe: "Generally regarded as the best infield guy, using metrics and other new-age methods to get what many consider the best results in baseball."

Globe columnist Nick Cafardo compiled the rankings based on the input he received from GM's, players, writers and other coaches. It wasn't a scientific survey, and it does seem weighted toward coaches with the Red Sox. But Hill's reputation is such that his top ranking hardly comes as any surprise.

If the Marlins' young pitching staff continues to impress and improve, I suppose an argument could be made for Chuck Hernandez. But, keep in mind, the Globe only lists a Top 5 for each coaching discipline -- the cream of the crop, in other words. The Marlins also have two new coaches joining the staff in hitting coach Frank Menechino and baserunning/outfield coach Brett Butler.